Moving to Aberdeen for University: What to Know
Moving away from home for university is an exciting and nervous experience. It will not be the first time living without your parents/guardians for most but may also be living in a completely new city. To help ease this transition, here are some things to know before you move to Aberdeen for University.
Attractions
St. Machar’s Cathedral
An ancient stalwart of Aberdeen’s history, dating back to 1131. The Cathedral also has shared history with the famous Scottish freedom fighter William Wallace. After his execution and being cut up, his left torso ended up in Aberdeen and is buried in the walls of the cathedral.
Brig o'Balgownie
Known for being the oldest bridge in Scotland, it’s always worth a visit. Not only is located in a picturesque location, which can be found by travelling through Seaton Park, it also has a connection to a Scottish hero. The bridge was built under the orders of Robert the Bruce.
The Tolbooth Museum at Castlegate
Originally a 17th-century jail, the Tolbooth has been transformed into a museum. It can be found on Union Street and exhibits prison cells, the development of crime and punishment techniques throughout Scottish history and general local history.
For more on attractions around Aberdeen, we wrote a list of day trips in and around Aberdeen blog which goes into more detail if you wish to get in your car and see more of the local attractions.
Nightlife
Babylon
Can be found at the end of union street, Babylon is best for Tuesday night outs. Their ‘Coco Tuesdays’ are the most popular venue on a Tuesday and is usually packed with students.
Nox
The best night to visit NOX is Wednesdays when they have ‘Mohawk night’. While it is definitely a student club, NOX does aim to be more ‘upmarket’ than Aberdeen’s other clubs, so dressing up for the night is more necessary.
TigerTiger
Best to visit on a Friday, TigerTiger usually has house music in the main room and R&B or Hip-Hop upstairs. Admission is £5, though it’s advisable to leave early as it can be extremely busy.
For more on Aberdeen Night Life, you can read out The best Nightlife Aberdeen blog post we wrote recently.
Shopping
To cover most of your shopping needs, visit Aberdeen’s biggest shopping centre UnionSquare. Big name brands such as Hugo Boss, Jack&Jones and Hollister all have shops in the centre as well as many more fashion companies. A cinema is also located within the centre, as well as an Apple store.
Accommodation
While you may be sorted with Uni accommodation in first year, it’s never too early to start preparing for where to live in second year and onwards. Some popular property agents are Savills Aberdeen, ASPC and Morna Petrano Property Leasing LTD.